Kalamazoo City Commission - August 10, 2026 Business Meeting

Updated about 2 hours ago

The Kalamazoo City Commission met on August 10 and addressed multiple pressing issues including homelessness, privacy concerns related to surveillance cameras, and the revitalization of neighborhoods. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public commentary, where residents voiced concerns over homelessness in Kalamazoo and the need for effective solutions. Privacy issues regarding the use of surveillance technologies such as Flock cameras were also discussed, with residents expressing a desire for greater transparency and oversight. The City Manager provided updates on neighborhood revitalization efforts, focusing on the acquisition and planned demolition of blighted properties to make way for green spaces and other community benefits. The meeting also saw the approval of funding for the Northside Anti-Gun Violence Community Carnival, highlighting the commission's commitment to community safety and engagement.

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:00:11)
The city commission meeting was called to order by Mayor Anderson, and Clerk Borling conducted the roll call.

The city commission meeting was officially called to order by Mayor Anderson. Clerk Borling proceeded to call the roll, confirming the presence of the commissioners. Commissioners Hoffman and Slabby were noted as absent.
Approval of Absences (00:00:35)
A motion was passed to excuse the absences of Commissioner Hoffman and Commissioner Slabby.

A motion was put forward and seconded to excuse the absences of Commissioner Hoffman and Commissioner Slabby from the meeting. The motion was supported by Vice Mayor Duncan and passed with a majority vote.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:52)
Commissioner Hess provided an invocation for peace and disarmament, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Commissioner Hess delivered an invocation that included a prayer for peace and disarmament, inspired by the Pope's Worldwide Prayer Network. The invocation emphasized the importance of peace, fraternity, and the renouncement of weapons. Following the invocation, attendees were asked to stand and participate in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Adoption of Formal Agenda (00:03:46)
The formal agenda was adopted with one item moved from the consent agenda to the regular agenda.

The commissioners discussed and adopted the formal agenda for the meeting. It was noted that one item, G7, was moved from the consent agenda to the regular agenda, becoming item H3.
Public Comments (00:04:31)
Several members of the public provided comments on topics such as homelessness, public safety, and city planning.

During the public comments section, various residents voiced concerns about issues including the handling of homelessness, the effectiveness and transparency of public safety initiatives, and city planning decisions. Specific topics included the need for better housing solutions, the impact of surveillance technologies like flock cameras, and the importance of addressing flooding and infrastructure problems in neighborhoods.
Public Comments on Technology and Protests (00:32:59)
A speaker advocates for public votes on technology issues and discusses participation in nationwide protests.

A speaker encourages a public vote on technology issues, urging all members to express their stance. They highlight the importance of unity in nationwide protests and express the desire to collectively address issues in Kalamazoo.
Presentation on Citizens Healthcare Action Plan (00:33:31)
A Community Action Michigan representative discusses a resolution for a healthcare action plan and apologizes for lack of prior communication.

A Berrian County Commissioner speaking on behalf of Community Action Michigan presents a resolution to adopt a Citizens Healthcare Action Plan, aimed at uniting community members in cities across southwest Michigan to influence healthcare policies.
Discussion on Housing Barriers and Community Issues (00:35:48)
A speaker addresses barriers faced by the unhoused and criticizes the commission for inadequate support.

A community member discusses the barriers faced by the unhoused, including mental health, housing, and systemic issues. They criticize the commission for not providing adequate support, emphasizing the need for collective action to help vulnerable populations and urging transparency and accountability from the commission.
Public Comment on Unhoused Population and Community Safety (00:39:41)
Community members express concerns about the unhoused population and community safety, suggesting solutions.

Wendy Fields and another speaker discuss the challenges posed by the unhoused population on Edward Street, expressing concerns about safety and sanitation. They emphasize the need for resources and support for those who wish to receive help while suggesting potential solutions such as donations to community organizations instead of panhandling.
Consent Agenda Items Overview (00:50:06)
The consent agenda includes approvals for various service agreements and resolutions related to infrastructure.

Manager Hankins presents the consent agenda, which includes approval of professional services agreements, contracts with Michigan Paving, resolutions for improvements to intersections, street lighting changes, and infrastructure improvements. The items are approved unanimously.
Regular Agenda Item H1: Property Acquisition Discussion (00:54:01)
Discussion on property acquisitions and their future use, emphasizing the need for expeditious development.

Commissioner Praedel raises concerns about the timeline for property acquisitions and their future use, urging for expeditious development to avoid leaving properties vacant. Director Baker explains the plans for expanding well fields and coordinating demolitions with infrastructure projects, outlining the long-term vision for the area.
Regular Agenda Item H2: Resolution on Citizens Health Action Committee (01:03:13)
A resolution to set election date and ballot language for establishing a Citizens Health Action Committee.

City Manager Hankins introduces a resolution to set an election date and determine ballot language for a charter amendment to establish the Citizens Health Action Committee. The committee would address healthcare costs and accessibility, and the resolution aims to add the proposal to an upcoming election ballot.
Discussion on Ballot Language Approval (01:06:21)
The commission discusses the approval of ballot language for a city charter amendment, highlighting concerns about its origins and the implications of out-of-state influence.

The commission engaged in a detailed discussion about the approval of ballot language for a proposed city charter amendment. It was clarified that the commission's role is to approve the language rather than the content of the amendment itself. Several commissioners expressed concern over the origin of the petition and the involvement of out-of-state organizations, questioning the transparency and potential costs involved. There was also concern about the lack of engagement with local officials and citizens during the petition process. Despite these concerns, the commission acknowledged that they must approve the language as per the city's charter process.
Public Comments on Charter Amendment Proposal (01:10:01)
Public comments were invited regarding the proposed charter amendment, with some expressing skepticism about its local relevance and transparency.

During the meeting, members of the public were invited to comment on the proposed charter amendment. A city resident expressed skepticism about the amendment's local relevance and transparency. He questioned the involvement of out-of-state organizations and the genuine representation of Kalamazoo citizens in the petition process.
Motion to Approve Ballot Language (01:23:24)
The commission votes to approve the ballot language for the charter amendment, despite concerns about its origins and implications.

The commission proceeded to vote on the motion to approve the ballot language for the proposed charter amendment. Despite reservations and concerns expressed by several commissioners regarding the petition's origins and the precedent it sets for out-of-state influence, the language was approved as part of the required procedural process.
Approval of Anti-Gun Violence Community Carnival (01:23:32)
The commission approves support for the Northside Alliance Anti-Gun Violence Community Carnival, emphasizing community engagement and resource provision.

The commission discussed and approved support for the Northside Alliance Anti-Gun Violence Community Carnival. Commissioners highlighted the importance of this event in promoting community engagement and providing resources and education about gun violence. The event was praised for its well-organized nature and its role in fostering a positive community atmosphere.
City Manager's Report on Community Events (01:26:04)
City Manager Hankins reports on recent community events, emphasizing engagement and collaboration across various initiatives and departments.

City Manager Hankins provided an update on recent community activities, including National Night Out, Northside Day, and other local events. He emphasized the importance of community engagement and the collaborative efforts of city departments and public safety personnel in organizing these events. Hankins also shared his personal experiences participating in various activities, highlighting the positive impact on community relations.
Commissioner Comments on Community Activities (01:29:08)
Commissioners express gratitude and reflect on the success of recent community events, underscoring the importance of neighborhood engagement.

During commissioner comments, several commissioners expressed their gratitude for the efforts of city staff and community organizations in organizing successful events such as National Night Out and Northside Day. They reflected on the positive impact of these events on community engagement and the importance of fostering strong neighborhood connections. Commissioners also discussed ongoing challenges, such as the unhoused crisis, and the need for continued collaborative efforts to address complex community issues.
Acknowledgment of Community Leader (01:39:00)
An acknowledgment of a community leader's contributions over the past four years emphasized their visibility and leadership.

A community leader was acknowledged for their remarkable leadership and partnership with the city over the past four years. The speaker expressed gratitude for the leader's efforts and the positive impact they have had on the community.
Discussion on Unhoused Resource Challenges (01:39:20)
The discussion covered challenges faced by unhoused individuals, including capacity issues at shelters and the impact of ordinances on encampments.

The speaker discussed the interconnectedness of communities in addressing the needs of the unhoused. Recent news from Ann Arbor about shelter capacity and Jackson, Michigan's ordinances affecting encampments were highlighted. There was a call for collaboration among communities like Kalamazoo Township and Portage to support the unhoused, especially during winter.
Community Event and City Staff Efforts (01:41:26)
City staff were thanked for their efforts on Edward Street, and a community event was highlighted, emphasizing the importance of supporting the unhoused.

The speaker thanked city staff for addressing issues on Edward Street and discussed ongoing efforts to support the unhoused community. The speaker also mentioned the importance of community events like the Northside Day and encouraged public engagement.
Transportation and Warming Centers (01:42:26)
K Metro provides transportation to heating and cooling centers for the unhoused, which is critical during extreme weather conditions.

The speaker mentioned the standing relationship with K Metro to provide transportation for unhoused individuals to heating and cooling centers during winter and summer. This service is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations during extreme weather.
Northside Day Celebration (01:43:04)
Northside Day was celebrated with community engagement and a successful event that brought people together.

The speaker recounted the success of Northside Day, a community event that fostered camaraderie and engagement. People were encouraged to join in the festivities, and the event was praised for its organization and the spirit of togetherness it inspired.
Winter Sheltering Initiatives (01:44:08)
A request for proposals for winter sheltering has been issued, aiming to improve the system for supporting the unhoused during cold weather.

The meeting discussed the Kalamazoo County Continuum of Care's request for proposals to address winter sheltering needs. The process aims to improve timeliness and effectiveness in providing shelter during winter, with anticipated responses from local ministries and organizations.
Adjournment (01:47:20)
The meeting concluded with expressions of love for Kalamazoo and the official adjournment of the session.

The meeting adjourned with a final expression of appreciation for the city of Kalamazoo. The session was officially closed, marking the end of the proceedings.